Rally Portugal Itinerary Sparks Controversy Among WRC Drivers
The Rally Portugal itinerary has ignited a firestorm of debate among WRC drivers, with concerns over the grueling schedule and lack of time for rest and meals. The second day of the rally, characterized by ten stages covering 91 competitive miles within a staggering 16-hour timeframe, has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism from the racing community.
The addition of a remote service zone, as opposed to a tire fitting zone from previous years, coupled with an extra loop featuring two new stages has pushed drivers to their limits. World championship leader Elfyn Evans expressed his unease, stating, “The schedule is definitely on the extreme side. The length of the days is fine, but the short nights as well coupled with that is difficult by the time you get to Sunday.”
Fellow drivers like Kalle Rovanperä and Sébastien Ogier echoed these sentiments, highlighting the challenges of limited break times and the toll it takes on their performance. Despite concerns raised by drivers, the organizers have yet to address these issues, leaving many feeling frustrated and ignored.
M-Sport’s team principal, Richard Millener, emphasized the unnecessary strain imposed by the itinerary, particularly criticizing the late-night tire-fitting zones and the excessive demands it places on the teams. While acknowledging the value of a good challenge, Millener stressed the importance of finding a balance between difficulty and feasibility in rally schedules.
As the debate rages on within the WRC community, the focus remains on the physical and mental endurance required to navigate the demanding Rally Portugal itinerary. With drivers pushing themselves to the brink, the true test of skill and resilience unfolds on the treacherous Portuguese terrain.